PROMISE Scholars recognized

June 15, 2012

West Virginia Wesleyan College is pleased to announce the academic achievements of this year's PROMISE Scholars who plan to attend the college.

Ninety-five students from all over the state will earn tuition and fees up to $4,750 at approved two-year and four-year colleges and universities in West Virginia.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the program, which was launched in 2002 under the leadership of former Gov. Bob Wise, former state Sen. Lloyd Jackson II and Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin, who previously served as Senate president. Since the program's creation, more than 32,000 students have been awarded the scholarship, and more than $315 million has been provided to help West Virginians attend college.

Tomblin said those funds represent a valuable investment in our state.

"Ten years ago, West Virginia made a promise to its young people: if you work hard, earn good grades and fully commit to pursuing a college education in our state, we will help you pay for a college education. That promise is paying off today for students and their families - but more important for our state. Research shows that receiving the PROMISE Scholarship helps ensure that our students graduate from college, because the program requires students to maintain a high grade point average and take a rigorous course load," Tomblin said. "Additionally, more than 60 percent of PROMISE Scholars work in state after graduation. To meet work force demands and grow our economy, West Virginia needs additional qualified college graduates. The PROMISE Scholarship is a valuable tool in helping keep young, bright West Virginians active in our local communities and across our great state."

To receive the PROMISE Scholarship, students must obtain a grade point average of 3.0 or higher, an overall ACT score of 22 and a score of at least 20 in each of four ACT subject areas.

The following students were awarded the PROMISE Scholarship this year:

More information about the PROMISE Scholarship and other state financial aid programs can be found through the College Foundation of West Virginia, the state's free college planning website at www.cfwv.com.